Disruptions in the telecommunications market: the economic impact of eSIM technology on roaming in Southeast Europe

Zijad Havić

1 , Marinko Stojkov

2 ,

Zijad Havić

1 , Marinko Stojkov

2 ,

Affiliations

1. Faculty of Information Technologies, Travnik, Bosnia and Herzegovina
2. University of Slavonski Brod, Trg I. B. Mažuranić 2, 35000 Slavonski Brod, Croatia

Affiliations

1. Faculty of Information Technologies, Travnik, Bosnia and Herzegovina
2. University of Slavonski Brod, Trg I. B. Mažuranić 2, 35000 Slavonski Brod, Croatia

Abstract: The digital transformation of the telecommunications sector is reaching a key milestone with the introduction of embedded SIM (eSIM) technology, which is redefining the way users access global mobile connectivity. This paper analyses the economic, regulatory, and security impact of eSIM adoption, with a special focus on the markets of Southeast Europe (SEE) and the Western Balkans, regions characterized by regulatory fragmentation and historically above-average roaming fees. By applying a combined methodology — comparative cost-benefit analysis, econometric analysis of market data, and comparative legal analysis of regulatory frameworks — the paper quantifies the economic benefits of eSIM adoption for key user segments. The results show an average roaming cost reduction of 76.1% for business users and 78.7% for digital nomads, along with a statistically significant improvement in the customer satisfaction index (NPS: +37 points). Particular emphasis is placed on the security framework for Remote SIM Provisioning (RSP)—in accordance with ENISA guidelines from 2024/2025 and the GSMA SGP.22 standard—as well as on regulatory challenges within the context of the WB6 Western Balkans Roaming Agreement. In conclusion, the paper develops scenarios for eSIM market evolution through 2030 and identifies eSIM technology as a catalyst for digital inclusion and regional economic integration.

Keywords: eSIM, GSMA SGP.22., Remote SIM Provisioning, roaming

Abstract

Summary: The digital transformation of the telecommunications sector is reaching a key milestone with the introduction of embedded SIM (eSIM) technology, which is redefining the way users access global mobile connectivity. This paper analyses the economic, regulatory, and security impact of eSIM adoption, with a special focus on the markets of Southeast Europe (SEE) and the Western Balkans, regions characterized by regulatory fragmentation and historically above-average roaming fees. By applying a combined methodology — comparative cost-benefit analysis, econometric analysis of market data, and comparative legal analysis of regulatory frameworks — the paper quantifies the economic benefits of eSIM adoption for key user segments. The results show an average roaming cost reduction of 76.1% for business users and 78.7% for digital nomads, along with a statistically significant improvement in the customer satisfaction index (NPS: +37 points). Particular emphasis is placed on the security framework for Remote SIM Provisioning (RSP)—in accordance with ENISA guidelines from 2024/2025 and the GSMA SGP.22 standard—as well as on regulatory challenges within the context of the WB6 Western Balkans Roaming Agreement. In conclusion, the paper develops scenarios for eSIM market evolution through 2030 and identifies eSIM technology as a catalyst for digital inclusion and regional economic integration.